The City of Enterprise, Ala. has proclaimed October 2026 as Fire Prevention Month, encouraging residents to make fire safety a priority and learn more about the safe use and charging of lithium-ion batteries.
Mayor William E. Cooper, Sr. signed the proclamation Thursday, Oct. 1, joined by Scotty Johnson – City Councilman – District Four, Enterprise Fire Department Battalion Chief Brian Beasley and members of C Shift.
This year’s Fire Prevention Month theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” highlights the growing importance of battery safety as more households use rechargeable devices, e-bikes, e-scooters and other battery-powered equipment.
“Community risk reduction is about more than responding when an emergency happens. It’s about taking proactive steps to prevent fires and giving our residents the information and resources they need to stay safe,” Beasley said. “Fire Prevention Month gives us an opportunity to bring those safety messages directly to our community, especially our children, and remind everyone that simple habits can make a real difference.”
Lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire or explosion risk when they are damaged, improperly used or improperly charged. The Enterprise Fire Department encourages residents to take simple precautions to reduce the risk of battery-related fires, including:
• Use manufacturer-approved chargers and charging cords.
• Charge devices on a hard, flat surface away from anything that can burn.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storing batteries.
• Do not use batteries or devices that show signs of damage, overheating or swelling.
• Unplug devices when they are fully charged.
• Keep e-bikes, e-scooters and other larger battery-powered devices away from exits and areas where they could block a safe escape.
• Never use a battery or charger that appears damaged or has been recalled.
Throughout October, Enterprise Fire Department personnel will visit Enterprise City Schools elementary schools to share this year’s Fire Prevention Month message with students. Firefighters will encourage students to “Charge into Fire Safety” and reinforce the message that safe charging is a superpower.
The department also continues its focus on one of its broader community risk-reduction goals: ensuring every home in Enterprise has a working smoke alarm.
The Enterprise Fire Department’s fall Smoke Detector Blitz is planned for Nov. 7. Free smoke alarms are available through the department for Enterprise residents. Additional information about the program and how to request a smoke alarm is available at enterprisefd.com.
“Every home should have a working smoke alarm, and we want to help make that possible,” Beasley said. “Our goal is for every home in Enterprise to have the protection of a working smoke alarm, and our department is committed to helping residents get the resources they need.”
The City of Enterprise recognizes the Enterprise Fire Department’s continued commitment to fire prevention, public education and emergency response and encourages residents to use Fire Prevention Month as an opportunity to review fire safety practices at home.
The Fire Prevention Month banner displayed during the proclamation signing, along with other educational materials and fun giveaways, were graciously donated for community use by local State Farm agent Jeremy Hilton. The items will be distributed during school visits and at upcoming events featuring the Enterprise Fire Department, including the EFD tent at the Boll Weevil Fall Festival on Oct. 17 and Spooky in the Park on Oct. 30.
